Springtime cleaning tips

Spring has been here for more than a month, and I’m just getting to seasonal cleaning suggestions.

From Robin Wilson, described as a healthy-space designer and “ambassador” for the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, come the following tips:

In the bathroom, get rid of your vinyl shower curtain, because it holds mold more easily and off-gases. Use a nylon curtain instead. Use nontoxic cleansers, and always lower the toilet seat when flushing to ensure that spraying particles do not land near or on your towels, toothbrushes, or soaps.

For bedding, wash pillowcases once a week, pillow protectors at least once a month, and replace pillows every three years. Cover your mattress with a hypoallergenic cover, wash it every two months, and make sure it is nontoxic, without formaldehyde-based fire retardants.

The start of spring is a great time to paint a room. Use non-VOC (volatile organic compound) paints in your home, which won’t off-gas, leave an obnoxious paint odor, and stir up asthma or allergies.

Check for mold in dishwashers, under the fridge in the water pan, and in sink and bath drains. Change water dispenser and ice maker filters.